How to Prepare for Oral Surgery

As with any surgery, there are certain steps that need to be taken when you are getting ready for an oral surgical procedure. By taking the correct steps, you can help to decrease the chance of problems occurring during or after the procedure has been completed. Here are some basics on how to prepare for oral surgery.

Check with Your Dentist

When it comes to preparing for oral surgery there is no one better to consult with than your dentist. After all, each patient has different needs, such as children and those that are pregnant, and therefore the pre-surgery steps will be unique for each patient. If you have any specific questions about readying yourself prior to surgery, be sure to bring your concerns to the attention of your dentist.

Arranging for Transportation

Arranging for a Ride Home After Surgery is a Must.
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It is not uncommon for anesthetics and anti-pain medications to be used during oral surgery, and the effects from these medications can last for hours after the surgery has been finished. This means that there is a likelihood that you will not be able to safely operate your vehicle until the medications have worn off. Therefore, it is vital that you arrange for transportation home from the place where the procedure is occurring.

Eating and Drinking

Ask Your Dentist About Eating or Drinking Prior to Surgery.
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While your oral surgeon will most likely have a rigid plan that you will need to adhere to when preparing for surgery, there are some basics worth keeping in mind. Typically, you will not be able to eat or drink anything for 8 hours prior to surgery, especially if sedation is going to be involved. In the case that only local anesthetic is to be used, then you may be able to eat and drink up to one hour before surgery, but always double check with your dentist.

Clothing Concerns

It is usually best to wear short-sleeved, loose-fitting attire when undergoing surgery to make the process as comfortable as possible. It is also wise to keep in mind that there is a chance that your clothes could get stained from the fluids used during surgery, so you may not want to wear expensive clothing. In addition, make sure that you remove all of your jewelry before undergoing surgery, as it could act as a hindrance.

In Summary

Having an oral surgical procedure completed can be an involved process, and therefore there are certain steps that need to be taken prior to surgery. When you are preparing for oral surgery, the first thing you will want to do is check with your dentist to see if they have any specific preparation instructions. In most cases, you will need to monitor your food intake before surgery and arrange for a safe ride home after the procedure has been finished. In addition, keep in mind to wear clothing that is comfortable, as certain surgeries can take hours to complete. By taking heed to this advice, you will help to ensure the surgery goes off without a hitch.